How to interpret grace periods for rent

This column on issues confronting renters and landlords is written by certified property manager Robert Griswold, author of “Property Management for Dummies,” and by attorney Steven R. Kellman, director of the Tenants Legal Center (tenantslegalcenter.com).

Question: As a landlord I understand that rental agreements that allow for a three-day grace period are interpreted to mean three calendar days. However, if the last day to pay a rental obligation falls on a weekend or holiday, California law extends that last day to pay over to the next business day. Can you clarify whether a weekend day means both Saturday and Sunday or just Sunday?

Kellman: Generally, certain obligations (including paying rent) become due the next business day if the due date lands on a Saturday, Sunday or specific legal state holiday. Thus, rent due on Saturday becomes really due on Monday, unless Monday is a legal holiday. Then, it is due Tuesday.